Top Things to Do in Johor Bahru 2025: Top Activities & Attractions

When I first drove across the Causeway to Johor Bahru, I couldn’t believe just how quickly one's surroundings shifted from Singapore's gleaming cityscape to a more relaxed, charming vibe. The streets here are filled with colorful artworks, night markets, and the delightful scent of freshly grilled satay wafting through balmy Johor Bahru air.

Slowing down compared to Singapore's hustle and bustle, JB invites you to slow down and enjoy a full lunch. Just wander about antique shophouses which speak tales of decades ago. It's no wonder that so many Singaporeans head here for their weekends. Treating themselves to deals shopping, finding hidden cafés, or enjoying a lower-priced massage.

If you're after a mini food trip or a stay-over (there are more than enough fabulous places to stay in Johor Bahru should you wish to stay on a bit longer), this city has a range of low-cost experiences that make every ringgit count.

Ready to plan your getaway? Here's your guide to things to do in Johor Bahru.

🌸 Wander the Alleys of Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street

The instant I went into Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street, I felt as if I had entered another century. The short road was lined with antique shophouses painted with vibrant colors. Their wooden shutters are pulled open, revealing small bakeries and quirky antique businesses. The air smelt like freshly brewed kopi and warm croissants. Every few steps, I could hear the gentle clinking of china bowls from concealed noodle booths. I went passed colorful murals, pausing to watch an artist work on a dragon design on a side wall. Under the midday heat, the street had a relaxing, leisurely vibe. Perfect for simply taking in the heritage charm.

📖 About Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street

This historic street is one of the most photographed and best-loved spots in Johor Bahru, known for its mix of heritage architecture, vibrant street art, and cosy cafés.

📅 Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the soft golden light for photos.

📍 How to Get There

It’s a short 10-minute walk from Johor Bahru City Square. You can also take a Grab straight to the entrance.

💰 Cost

Free to explore

💡 Pro Tips

• Bring cash; some cafés and shops don’t accept cards.
• Come hungry—there are famous laksa and traditional bakeries to try.
• Check for pop-up craft markets on weekends.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, but the uneven pavements can be tricky for strollers and wheelchairs.

💆 Recharge with a Massage at KSL Mall

Stepping into the KSL Mall massage centre felt like entering a peaceful bubble away from the busy streets of the city. Soothing instrumental music played in the background, while the pleasant smell of lemongrass essential oil lingered in the dark, cold room. I sank into a beautiful reclining chair, and the therapist's delicate hands quickly massaged all the kinks out of my back and shoulders. Each soft press seemed to release stress that had built up throughout the week. Even sipping warm ginger tea afterwards made me feel luxurious. When I left, I felt completely renewed and energized. I couldn't wait to discover what other treasures Johor Bahru has in store.

📖 About KSL Mall Massage

KSL Mall has several popular massage centres offering everything from quick foot reflexology to full-body treatments, all at wallet-friendly prices compared to Singapore.

📅 Best Time to Visit

Weekdays before 5 PM to avoid the evening and weekend crowds.

📍 How to Get There

Located inside KSL City Mall on Jalan Seladang—just a short Grab ride from the checkpoint or Johor Bahru Sentral.

💰 Cost

From RM50 for a 60-minute foot massage

💡 Pro Tips

• Call ahead or WhatsApp to book during peak hours.
• Bring cash; not all outlets accept cards.
• Check for bundle promotions if you want longer sessions.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, many centres have waiting areas and short treatments suitable for elderly visitors.

🥢 Savour Classic Chinese Dishes at Restaurant Uncle Pou Wok

Walking into Restaurant Uncle Pou Wok felt like stepping into a modern take on the classic tze char spot. The place was bright, clean, and filled with the clatter of woks and the chatter of families digging into steaming platters. I ordered their signature Salted Egg Yolk Pork Ribs. Crispy, golden pieces coated in a rich, creamy sauce that balanced savoury and sweet perfectly. Each bite melted in my mouth. Alongside, the Kam Heong Lala clams released a heady aroma of curry leaves and chili that made me instantly hungry again. What struck me most was how generous the portions were. You could easily share everything around the table, family-style. Compared to dining out in Singapore, it felt wonderfully affordable without sacrificing quality.

📖 What Makes This Place Special?

Restaurant Uncle Pou Wok is famous for their consistent, high-quality tze char dishes and big portions. It’s considered one of the best Chinese restaurants in Mount Austin, Johor Bahru, especially for family dinners.

📅 Best Time to Eat Here

Dinner time, around 6 PM–8 PM, when the kitchen is in full swing and the atmosphere is lively.

📍 Where to Find It

25, Jalan Austin Heights 3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor

💰 Cost

Dishes typically range from RM15–RM50 each depending on portion size; great value for groups

💡 Pro Tips

• Make a reservation on weekends—it fills up fast.
• Bring cash or check if they accept cards (some branches prefer cash).
• Don’t miss the Signature Bean Paste Chicken if you like bold flavours.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! Big tables, highchairs available, and a wide menu with mild options for kids.

🥘 Dive into Ba Shu Spring Hotpot at Eco Palladium

I sank into my seat at Ba Shu Spring Hotpot in Eco Palladium, greeted by a bubbling cauldron of rich tomato broth that smelled of halal stock and secret spices. Fresh cuts of pork belly, rib-eye, and crisp veggies sat ready for dipping. As I plunged each skewer into the steaming pot, the sizzle and swirl of broth were irresistible. The first juicy bite exploded with umami, warmed by the broth’s mellow spice. The atmosphere was bright yet cozy—families and groups chatting around shared pots, servers bringing refill bamboo baskets of ingredients. Between mouthfuls, I sipped cold wintermelon tea and nibbled sweet watermelon to cleanse my palate—pure comfort and indulgence in one meal.

📖 What Makes This Dish Special?

Ba Shu Spring blends traditional Chongqing-style hotpot with fresh ingredients served on skewers—a fun, communal twist on the classic. Located in Eco Palladium, it’s a popular “where to eat in Johor Bahru” spot for Singaporean groups craving spicy and savoury flavours.

📅 Best Time to Eat This

Weekday evenings—less crowded, more relaxed atmosphere.

📍 Where to Find It

Block B, #02‑16 & #02‑17, Eco Palladium, Jalan Ekoflora, Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru.

💰 Cost

Around RM230 for a four-person hotpot buffet (≈RM58/pax). Casual dining, halal-friendly options available.

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit on weekdays to avoid peak-time crowds.
• Score free tofu and drinks by checking in or writing a quick review on their social media.
• Start with a mild broth and spice it up with extra chilli paste from the condiment bar.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, perfect for groups and families, with individual pots for kids or non-spicy eaters, plus plenty of vegetable and halal options.

🍺 Chill Out Over Craft Brews at The Brew House Eco Palladium

Going into The Brew House at Eco Palladium was like discovering a charming sanctuary overflowing with excitement. It was a warm, welcoming environment, complete with bare, industrial-style red-brick walls, rows of glistening beer taps, and sparkling lifting of glasses mixed with energetic music. I requested a high table near the bar so that I could watch the bartenders skillfully pour foamy pints of lager and stout. My ice-cold IPA was crisp and refreshing, and it was perfectly paired with a meal of succulent pork ribs accompanied with crispy fries. It had the perfect balance of after-work throngs and couples enjoying each other's company over platters. It struck precisely the right note between being a relaxed pub and a trendy bistro. Somewhere you could easily lose track of time.

📖 What Makes This Spot Special?

The Brew House is one of the best bars in Johor Bahru if you love craft beer and comfort food. Their menu ranges from local-inspired bar bites to hearty Western mains, and they rotate seasonal brews that keep regulars coming back.

📅 Best Time to Go

Weekday evenings after 6 PM—happy hour deals and a more relaxed crowd.

📍 Where to Find It

The Brew House, Eco Palladium, Jalan Ekoflora, Mount Austin, Johor Bahru.

💰 Cost & Dress Code

Craft beers from RM18–RM28 per glass, mains RM20–RM50. No cover charge.
Dress code: Casual—shorts and sneakers welcome.

💡 Pro Tips

• Check their social media for seasonal beer launches and promotions.
• Try the signature Brew House Pork Pizza—it pairs perfectly with an IPA.
• If you’re in a group, reserve a table—weekends fill up fast.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes. Though the atmosphere is lively, there’s a spacious seating area where families can enjoy early dinners.

🛍️ Shop and Snack at Johor Bahru City Square

Walking into Johor Bahru City Square was like entering a bright maze of colour and sound. Escalators connected five bustling levels filled with fashionable fashion stores, beauty counters lit by bright lights, and kiosks selling everything from Korean items to charming stationery. The aroma of freshly made bubble tea and buttery popcorn enticed me to pause between stores. I ran my hands over racks of silky cotton T-shirts at Padini and tried on sneakers at Skechers before entering a little shop selling handmade items. Every corner was crowded with shoppers. Families looking for deals, couples on dates, and adolescents giggling over ice cream. It seemed active without being overwhelming, with the ideal balance of known brands and small surprises.

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?

Johor Bahru City Square is one of the best shopping malls in Johor Bahru, known for its wide mix of fashion, beauty, electronics, and food. It’s a favourite among Singaporeans looking for bargains and casual dining in one place.

📅 Best Time to Shop

Weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid crowds.

📍 Where to Find It

Johor Bahru City Square Mall, Jalan Wong Ah Fook—directly connected to the CIQ checkpoint.

💰 Price Range & Bargaining Tips

Mostly mid-range, with many affordable fashion and lifestyle stores.
Fixed prices in most outlets—no bargaining needed.

💡 Pro Tips

• Download discount apps or grab a Tourist Privilege Card at the concierge.
• Pop upstairs to the cinema or arcade if you need a shopping break.
• Don’t miss the local food stalls in the basement for cheap eats.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes—there are plenty of cafés, seating areas, a kids’ play zone, and even a cinema to keep everyone entertained.

👜 Explore Trendy Boutiques at Mid Valley Southkey

Stepping into Mid Valley Southkey felt like arriving in a shopper’s paradise with a polished, modern vibe. Sunlight poured through the massive glass atrium, lighting up rows of chic storefronts and colourful displays. I wandered past stylish boutiques like Charles & Keith and Uniqlo, where soft sweaters and sleek handbags called out to me. The air smelled faintly of roasted coffee drifting from cafés tucked into every corner. On the upper levels, the hum of happy shoppers mingled with music from pop-up kiosks selling everything from artisanal soap to Korean snacks. I paused to admire seasonal decorations and snapped a few photos—they really know how to make the place Instagram-worthy.

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?

Mid Valley Southkey is one of the must-visit shopping malls in Johor Bahru, famous for its huge selection of international brands, lifestyle stores, and an entire level dedicated to food. It’s ideal if you want a more upscale shopping experience with lots of dining choices.

📅 Best Time to Shop

Weekday afternoons for a quieter, more relaxed browsing experience.

📍 Where to Find It

Mid Valley Southkey, Persiaran Southkey 1, Johor Bahru—about 10 minutes from the checkpoint by Grab.

💰 Price Range & Bargaining Tips

Mid- to high-end; fixed prices in all stores.
No bargaining—prices are clearly tagged.

💡 Pro Tips

• Join the Southkey app loyalty program for exclusive discounts.
• Come hungry—there’s a whole floor of restaurants and dessert cafés.
• Visit during festive seasons for beautiful themed displays.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! Stroller-friendly aisles, nursing rooms, kids’ play areas, and plenty of places to rest.

🏁 Rev Up at RUD Karting Medini in Medini

The roar of engines hit me as soon as I stepped onto RUD Karting’s outdoor track—bright floodlights cutting through the dusk at Medini. I gripped the steering wheel of a Super Twin kart and felt the thrill of two-seat racing shoulder-to-shoulder with a friend. The track stretched 774 meters with 16 technical corners that challenged every turn. As I accelerated down the straights, the kart's engine growled underneath me, and the wind whipped past my helmet. On the sidelines, cheers echoed from the RUD Cafe terrace, where friends munched snacks and sipped iced drinks while watching us battle for lap times. Each lap sliced seconds off my time—pure adrenaline and competition in one unforgettable night.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?

RUD Karting Medini is one of the best go-kart circuits in Johor Bahru, known for its long, competitive layout and variety of kart options—including the novelty of two-seater Super Twin karts. Set right next to a café and KTV rooms, it blends racing with a chill hangout vibe.

📅 Best Time to Do This

Weekday evenings after 7 PM—cooler track conditions and fewer crowds.

📍 Where to Start

RUD Karting Medini, Persiaran Medini Sentral 6, Bandar Medini Iskandar, Iskandar Puteri (roughly 20 minutes from JB Sentral). Booking online or via their app is recommended.

💰 Cost & Additional Info

RM55 (~SGD 16.60) for a 10-minute session. Helmets and balaclavas provided; no driving license needed.

💡 Pro Tips:

• Arrive early to snag a seat at the RUD Cafe terrace—great for cheering or chilling before your turn.
• Try the Super Twin kart for a fun shared experience, even if only one of you is driving.
• Check their social media for late-night promos—track is open until 2 AM.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, suitable for teens and adults. The two-seater karts mean non-drivers (like younger teens) can join the fun. Viewers of all ages can relax at the café and watch safely from the sidelines.

🕵️ Crack the Code at Lost in JB Escape Room

The moment I stepped into the dimly lit chamber at Lost in JB, my heart started racing. The door clicked shut behind me, and a hush settled over our group. Flickering lanterns cast shadows on cryptic symbols etched into the walls. A soft mechanical whirr hinted at hidden compartments waiting to be discovered. We split up—one friend decoding a tattered map, while I carefully turned dusty gears on an ancient-looking lock. Every clue felt like a small victory, each puzzle piece snapping into place with a satisfying click. The experience was equal parts thrilling and brain-teasing, and for an hour, I completely forgot I was in a shopping mall. It felt like stepping into an alternate world crafted just for us.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?

Lost in JB is one of the most unique experiences in Johor Bahru—each room is an immersive, story-driven adventure with elaborate sets and challenging puzzles. Unlike basic escape rooms, their themes feel cinematic and meticulously detailed.

📅 Best Time to Do This

Weekday afternoons—fewer groups mean you can start promptly and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

📍 Where to Start

Lost in JB Escape Room, Level 4, JB City Square Mall. Advance booking recommended online or by phone.

💰 Cost

RM40–RM60 per person depending on the room selected.

💡 Pro Tips:

• Arrive 15 minutes early for a briefing.
• Bring a water bottle—some rooms can get warm.
• Choose beginner-level rooms if it’s your first time.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Suitable for older kids (age 12+) and teens; younger children may find some themes too challenging or spooky. Alternative easier rooms are available for family groups.

Ready For Your Trip to Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru surprised me in the best ways. It’s not just a quick escape from Singapore. It’s a city full of character, flavour, and warmth. Whether I was diving into local food, soaking up cultural gems, or finding quirky spots tucked in back alleys. JB had this laid-back charm that’s hard to forget. The traffic can be a bit of a pain, especially during long weekends. But once you’re there, everything from massages to meals feels worth the journey.

What I love most is JB’s unique blend of modern convenience and old-school soul. There’s always something unexpected, from hidden murals to night markets buzzing with energy. If you're thinking of visiting, check out the latest travel promotions for Johor Bahru!